A Jeep Grand Cherokee has a manufacturer-suggested retail price of $36,465, which is higher than most mid-size SUVs. However, it excels as a reliable car, with a unique infotainment system, upscale interior, comfy seats, and enough space for 5 adults.
Since it’s one of the most versatile cars on the market, there’s no setting or trail that your Jeep Grand Cherokee won’t conquer. But how long do Jeep Grand Cherokees last? How well does this car perform in the long run?
If you’re considering buying a Jeep Grand Cherokee, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the car’s reliability and its expected performance in the long run. So, keep on reading.
How Long Do Jeep Grand Cherokees Last?
Before paying for a car that costs more than an average model in its category, it’s logical to consider the car’s long-term performance. On average, a Grand Cherokee can last up to 20 years while staying in style. This is a well-built vehicle with a design that puts a lot of emphasis on longevity and durability.
Any car bought at the same time won’t deliver the same performance for this period. It won’t even be able to tackle the challenging trails that the Jeep Grand Cherokee handles with ease.
Ever since it was first produced in 1992, Jeep Grand Cherokee has attracted fans with its reliable and versatile design. It works for off-road adventures as well as city commutes and highway drives.
The older models were said to work for about 200,000 miles with no issues, guaranteeing that the car will provide good value for money. However, the newer models excel with a service life of up to 300,000 without any serious problems despite abusing the car in off-the-road rides.
Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliable?
According to older consumer reports, some car owners faced problems with their cars. A lot of 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 models caused many problems that made car owners skeptical of the longevity of this vehicle.
Things have been sorted out with newer models, as starting from 2016, fewer problems were reported. This means that the company’s designers and engineers were able to identify the problem that caused the dissatisfaction of their customers and managed to take care of it.
Knowing which models were reported to cause problems is a valuable piece of information that you need to consider if you’re buying a used car. For example, the 2011 models have been reported to encounter a lot of engine and suspension problems. This is why if you’re considering buying an older Jeep Grand Cherokee, you might want to consider purchasing a 2010 model instead.
If you’re considering buying a newer used Jeep Grand Cherokee, it’s recommended to consider a model that was produced in 2015 and beyond. These vehicles showed a significant decrease in customers’ complaints as reported by those who bought and used the car.
The biggest problems buyers faced were related to the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It’s considered a money pit because of all the expensive maintenance repairs and transmission problems that would subject the lives of the driver and passengers to danger.
What Are the Most Common Jeep Grand Cherokee Problems?
There are several common problems that affect vehicles produced in several years. Unfortunately, some of these problems are associated with specific year models, giving them a bad reputation in the market.
- Faulty transmission and the car’s inability to shift from neutral or park are among the most common and serious problems. This problem was caused by a loose electric connection that would cause the car to roll away after the driver has left the vehicle.
- The TIPM or totally integrated power module system wouldn’t send information to the fuel pump, thus shutting the car while it’s being driven. This system controlled many of the car’s electronic features, and when it malfunctioned, drivers were unable to use any of the features or reach their destinations.
- Faulty alternators were also reported in some of the 2012, 2013, and 2014 models. It wouldn’t start or would start and later catch fire. When it catches fire, the alternator shuts down the anti-lock brakes and electronic stability systems, making the car dangerous to ride.
- Faulty ignition switches were responsible for shifting the car to “accessory,” which should shut off the airbags. Some drivers also reported that their vehicles would totally shut off and that the power steering would stop working.
Should You Buy a Used Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Buying a used Jeep Grand Cherokee might be your only option if you need a reliable car that doesn’t cost much. With some research, you can get a very good deal on the car you want.
However, researching the market and doing your homework when you’re buying any used car, even if it’s a well-built Jeep, is essential. Here are a few factors that you need to consider.
- Check out the car’s model. Since some years are known to be lousy car years, it’s a good idea to avoid these models altogether, even if the car costs less. Problems related to the engine and the transmission system can cause a lot of nuisance when you’re on or off the road. So, it’s a better idea to consider another model instead.
- Don’t rely on the model number as an indication of the car’s status. A car might be severely abused, although it’s only 3 years old. The best way to determine a car’s status is to take it on a test drive. You can see for yourself how it performs and whether it satisfies your needs or not.
- Check out the odometer. A car that has been driven for 100,000 miles in 2 years won’t be as reliable as one that is 5 years old and has only been used for 20,000 miles.
- Ask the previous owner or dealership about any maintenance or repair work done. A car that has been serviced regularly is less likely to break down soon compared to a car that its previous owner ignored.
Wrap Up
When you take care of it, your Jeep Grand Cherokee can be the perfect vehicle for your son or daughter after 2 decades of continuous driving. On average, a car would last for up to 200,000 miles or even reach the mark of 300,000 if you’re buying one of the newest models. Buying a used Jeep Grand Cherokee isn’t a bad decision, as long as you know which models to avoid.